Tips to save this holiday season

December 22, 2025

A utility company is offering energy-saving advice to customers during the holiday season when home appliances experience increased usage. The guidance includes lowering thermostats when hosting guests, switching to LED holiday lights with timers, and using alternative cooking appliances instead of ovens to reduce natural gas consumption. For those traveling during the holidays, recommendations include adjusting thermostats to lower settings without turning them off completely and unplugging unnecessary electronics.

Who is affected

DTE Energy customers in Michigan
Holiday hosts and homeowners who entertain guests
People traveling during the holiday season
Households using heating appliances, holiday lighting, and kitchen appliances during increased holiday activity

What action is being taken

DTE Energy is providing energy-saving tips and recommendations to customers
The company is offering access to a free Bill Analyzer Tool for customers to review their energy usage

Why it matters

This matters because holiday activities significantly increase residential energy consumption through more frequent cooking, additional heating needs from guests and open doors, decorative lighting, and packed refrigerators working harder. Michigan experienced particularly high energy bills last winter due to extreme cold temperatures, making energy management especially important for household budgets. Taking proactive steps can help families reduce their utility costs during an already expensive time of year while maintaining comfort and holiday traditions.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle